Sukhothai tourist guide

Sukhothai is considered a golden age in Thai history

Sukhothai, Thailand’s very first capital city founded in the 13th century, is definitely one of the highlights of any visit to this country. Although the new part of the city doesn’t offer much of interest to the average visitor, it’s the 45 square kilometers of incredible ruins that make a trip here worthwhile.

The Sukhothai Historical Park contains the remains of 21 ancient temples, stupas and other buildings in various states of romantic decay. A good place to get acquainted with this massive park is at the Ramkhamhaeng National Museum, which has a fantastic collection of artifacts and information from the 13th-century Sukhothai Kingdom.

Visitors typically appreciate the bulk of the sights by walking or cycling around the main park site, with it’s pretty ponds and lakes, manicured lawns and, of course, multiple ruin sites. Highlights include Wat Mahatat with its giant chedi, Wat Si Sawai with its Khmer styled prang and Wat Sa Si, famously reflected in its pond. Outside of the main complex you will find Wat Si Chum ñ unmistakeable for its Giant Buddha.

There's some great photo angles in Sukhothai

An additional 70 ancient sites can be found within 5kms of Sukhothai, providing as much ruin-hunting as you please. A great way to explore the area is by bicycle, either on your own or with one of the local tours. Visitors who come in November may be able to witness the famous Loy Kratong festival, which is the highlight of the calendar in Sukhothai.

While in the area it’s worthwhile planning an extra day to make a side trip to Sri Satchanalai Historic Park, 50kms north. This remarkably well preserved site is less visited but in some ways nicer and as big as Sukhothai. It’s located on the banks of the Yom river, along with the ruins of Chaliang and is where the famous ancient Sawankholok pottery was produced.

Most of the lodging, dining and entertainment is located within the new city area, about 450kms north of Bangkok. There are plenty of reasonably-priced options when it comes to sleeping as well as handful of nice resorts.

The bell shaped chedis are distinctly Sukhothai in style

Sukhothai’s main municipal market offers the best cultural interaction in town, and will give you something to do when you aren’t exploring the ruins. But the real attraction in Sukhothai is the old city ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of Thailand’s undisputed gems.

Sukhothai tourist guide

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